How Can I Regain My Faith in Humanity After a Tragedy?
Dear Meli, I’m sorry to get so heavy, but I have a really hard one. My mother was murdered. It happened about three years ago. She was in her sixties and was killed by her boyfriend. No one saw it coming. He seemed like a really great guy, and she didn’t...
Help! My Adult Child and I Have Nothing in Common!
Dear Meli, I am embarrassed to ask you this question, but it’s been weighing heavily on me lately. I have two adult children, a son and a daughter. My son and I get along wonderfully. My daughter and I get along well too, at least on the surface, but it’s...
How Do I Stop Telling the Same Sad Story About My Past?
Dear Meli, I had a really hard childhood. In many ways, things are so much better now. I’ve come a long way and I’m grateful for who I am today. But there’s something that still bothers me. When I talk about my childhood, it’s hard not to lapse...
How Do I Handle My Constantly Complaining Friend?
Dear Meli, I have a friend I’ve known since college. I love her dearly, but lately it’s getting harder and harder to hang out with her. She’s always complaining. She complains about her job. She complains about her wife. She complains about her...
How Do I Release My Inner Grinch?
Dear Meli, I know most people don’t agree with me, but I am not a fan of Christmas. It’s become so commercial, it drives me crazy. And all the social obligations that crop up this time of year can be overwhelming. My family of origin is all gone, so I...